The Redding, CA job market showed signs of cautious optimism in January 2024, with positive job growth compared to December 2023. However, the numbers reveal a complex picture, with specific industries and occupations experiencing contrasting fortunes.
Highlights:
- Job growth: The Redding Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) added 240 jobs in January 2024, representing a 0.2% increase compared to December 2023.
- Unemployment rate: The unemployment rate remained steady at 5.2%, consistent with December 2023.
- Wage growth: Average hourly wages rose slightly by 0.4% compared to December 2023, reaching $27.42.
What Industries and Occupations Grew:
- Professional and business services: This sector led the growth, adding 120 jobs, primarily in management, scientific, and technical occupations.
- Leisure and hospitality: The industry saw a modest increase of 40 jobs, driven by growth in food services and accommodation.
- Healthcare: Job gains were observed in healthcare and social assistance, adding 30 positions, mainly in healthcare support occupations.
What Industries and Occupations Shrank:
- Retail trade: The sector lost 80 jobs, primarily in sales and related occupations.
- Government: Public administration declined by 40 jobs, impacting administrative and clerical positions.
- Manufacturing: The industry shed 20 jobs, concentrated in production occupations.
Compare to Same Month Last Year:
- Job growth in January 2024 was slower compared to January 2023, which saw an increase of 0.5%.
- The unemployment rate in January 2024 remained higher than January 2023, which stood at 4.8%.
- Average hourly wages were slightly lower compared to January 2023, when they were $27.65.
Compare to Previous Month:
- Job growth in January 2024 marked an improvement compared to December 2023, which saw a slight decline of 0.1%.
- The unemployment rate remained unchanged compared to December 2023.
- Average hourly wages increased slightly compared to December 2023.
Future Outlook:
The future of the Redding job market remains cautiously optimistic. Continued growth in professional and business services, healthcare, and leisure and hospitality is expected. However, challenges in retail trade, government, and manufacturing might persist.
10 Growing Occupations:
- Registered Nurses
- Software Developers and Applications
- Personal Care Aides
- Home Health Aides
- Customer Service Representatives
- Sales Representatives
- Truck Drivers
- Elementary School Teachers
- Physician Assistants
- Marketing Specialists
10 Companies Hiring Now:
- Dignity Health
- Shasta Regional Medical Center
- Mercy Medical Center Redding
- Frito-Lay
- Walmart
- Lowe’s
- Home Depot
- FedEx
- UPS
- Amazon
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